What are the best ways to illustrate complex landscape concepts for non-experts?

1 Sketches and diagrams

One of the most effective ways to illustrate complex landscape concepts is to use sketches and diagrams. Sketches are quick and expressive drawings that capture the essence and character of a landscape design. They can be done by hand or digitally, using different media and techniques. Diagrams are simplified and abstract representations that highlight the main features, functions, or relationships of a landscape design. They can use symbols, colors, shapes, or annotations to convey information. Sketches and diagrams can help you communicate your design process, concept, and strategy to non-experts, as well as solicit feedback and input.

2 Models and mock-ups

Another way to illustrate complex landscape concepts is to use models and mock-ups. Models are scaled-down physical or digital representations that show the form, structure, and materials of a landscape design. They can be made of cardboard, clay, wood, or other materials, or created using software such as SketchUp, Rhino, or Revit. Mock-ups are full-scale or partial prototypes that show the details, quality, and performance of a landscape design. They can be made of the actual materials, or similar ones, that will be used in the final construction. Models and mock-ups can help you demonstrate your design vision and feasibility to non-experts, as well as test and refine your design solutions.

3 Renderings and animations

A third way to illustrate complex landscape concepts is to use renderings and animations. Renderings are realistic and detailed images that show the appearance and atmosphere of a landscape design. They can be done by hand or digitally, using software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, or Lumion. Animations are dynamic and interactive videos that show the movement and interaction of a landscape design. They can be done by using software such as After Effects, Premiere, or Unreal Engine. Renderings and animations can help you showcase your design aesthetics and functionality to non-experts, as well as create emotional and memorable impressions.

4 Narratives and stories

A fourth way to illustrate complex landscape concepts is to use narratives and stories. Narratives are coherent and logical explanations that describe the purpose, context, and benefits of a landscape design. They can use text, speech, or audio to convey information. Stories are engaging and compelling scenarios that illustrate the experience, impact, and value of a landscape design. They can use characters, plots, or emotions to convey meaning. Narratives and stories can help you justify your design decisions and outcomes to non-experts, as well as inspire and persuade them.

5 Maps and infographics

A fifth way to illustrate complex landscape concepts is to use maps and infographics. Maps are spatial and geographic representations that show the location, scale, and orientation of a landscape design. They can use different projections, scales, or layers to convey information. Infographics are visual and data-driven representations that show the facts, figures, and trends of a landscape design. They can use charts, graphs, icons, or numbers to convey information. Maps and infographics can help you provide your design context and evidence to non-experts, as well as educate and inform them.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?